EXPERIENCE

I make a living shaping words, but I make a life consuming stories.

As a lover of words, I developed a keen interest in language over the years. I graduated from North Carolina State University with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and a minor in Creative Writing.

I’m a full-time freelance book editor for editorial agencies, publishers, and indie authors.

MY STORY

I believe in the power of story and that everyone has a story to tell. My own story of becoming an editor began as a child—as so many stories do. I was a classic reluctant reader who feared the competitiveness in school that so often squashes a love for reading—a fate that did not stand a chance between my journal-scribbling, love for poetry, and unquenchable imagination.

I became an English major enthralled by my creative writing and copyediting courses. I served as the editor-in-chief of North Carolina State’s literary arts publication, and the rest—as they say—is history. Before launching my editorial business in 2013, I worked as a writer and editor for a literary consultancy. I was also a content editor for a leading digital marketing agency.

CONTINUED EDUCATION

Two major players in shaping my story as a professional editor are (1) the editing community and (2) continued education, including the following.

I am currently pursuing my Editing certificate at the University of Chicago Graham School. I am a contributing member of the Christian Proofreaders and Editors Network (Christian PEN), a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), and an associate member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

Basically, if I’m not reading or editing, I’m talking about reading or editing.

MY PHILOSOPHY

I truly enjoy playing a small part in unraveling redemptive and authentic words in other writers’ stories.

As Maya Angelou said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you.”

My philosophy as an editor is to bring out the very best in a writer’s work, making it tighter, richer, and more approachable to readers. I am committed to preserving a writer’s style and voice, helping clients refine their words or story elements so the manuscript clearly resonates with readers.

Maxwell Perkins, famous and beloved literary editor, said it best when reflecting on the profession with other editors:

“An editor does not add to a book. At best he serves as a handmaiden to an author. Don’t ever get to feeling important about yourself, because an editor at most releases energy. A writer’s best work comes entirely from himself … because in the end an editor can only get as much out of an author as the author has in him.”